Category: Defence

Source: United States Navy

Royal Jordanian Navy Capt. Ayman Al Naimat turned over command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154 to Egyptian Navy Commodore Haytham Khalil. Egypt is the third partner nation to command the task force since its establishment in May 2023.

“I am proud I have been giving the chance to represent my country, Jordan, in the CMF family as CTF 154 commander for the past seven months,” said Capt. Al Naimat. “CMF is more than just about the message we deliver, it’s about the commitment we’re all eager to present, it’s all about collective efforts we all share to maintain the global maritime security in this very important part of the world. I hope that I was able along with my team to achieve CMF vision and to successfully fulfill CTF 154’s mission speaking of maritime security enhancement training (MSET).”

CTF 154 conducts multinational maritime training at locations across the Middle East, enabling more CMF partner-nations to participate in training opportunities without ships or aircraft, particularly during courses that are facilitated ashore. It organizes training events around five core areas: maritime awareness, maritime law, maritime interdiction, maritime rescue and assistance, and leadership development. Each training opportunity is tailored to meet partner requests ranging from basic to advanced levels.

“It is my honor to represent my country, Egypt, in CMF as the new CTF 154 commander,” said Commodore Khalil. “My team and I will give the role all we have to achieve CMF’s vision and to successfully fulfill CTF 154’s mission in maritime security enhancement training to reach the goals we are all looking for.”

Commodore Khalil will lead a team of nine multinational staff from six countries in planning, coordinating, and executing MSET.

CMF is the world’s largest naval partnership, with 44 countries working together. Other task forces include CTF 150, focused on maritime security in the Gulf of Oman, Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden; CTF 151, which leads regional anti-piracy efforts; CTF 152, dedicated to maritime security in the Arabian Gulf; and CTF 153, focused on international maritime security in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.

Source: United States Navy

Mason was deployed for 263 days in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Mediterranean Sea, supporting freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce.

While deployed, Mason faced unprecedented attacks from the Houthi terrorist group based out of Yemen.

“I am extremely proud of this battle tested and battle proven crew who achieved unparalleled accomplishments while deployed,” said Cmdr. Justin B. Smith, Mason’s commanding officer. “No matter the threat or challenge, they demonstrated an innate ability to sustain a high level of readiness for eight months by thinking on their feet and quickly reacting. As result of their abilities, they protected Mason’s crew and exceeded all mission tasking throughout deployment.”

While deployed, Mason intercepted multiple unmanned aerial vessels and anti-ship ballistic missiles targeting merchant vessels and coalition warships. In support of the freedom of navigation and worldwide commerce, Mason escorted and saved 26 merchant vessels as they transited through the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait.

On Nov. 26, 2023, Mason responded to a distress call in the Gulf of Aden where five suspected pirates overtook M/V Central Park. Once Mason arrived, the suspected pirates fled, and Mason’s Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure team took custody of the suspected pirates and freed the crew stuck in the ship’s citadel. 

Continuing the global support of the free flow of commerce, the crew displayed proficient interoperability between coalition partners through Liaison Naval Officers, helicopter cross deck operations, ship maneuvering exercises, and coordinated engagements.

Mason was deployed as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower (IKE) Carrier Strike Group (CSG). IKECSG operated in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations to deepen strategic relationships with allies and partners, and to support maritime security and stability.

The strike group is commanded by CSG-2 and comprised of flagship Dwight D. Eisenhower, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 with its nine squadrons, USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 with its guided missile destroyers.

Source: United States Navy

“Springfield exemplifies the excellence of our submarine force, serving as a cornerstone in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Capt. Neil Steinhagen, commander, Submarine Squadron 15. “The crew has contributed uniquely to our mission, and their dedication reflects our steadfast commitment to our allies across the region and truly embodies their motto, United for Freedom.”

During their deployment, Springfield conducted vital missions crucial to national security, enhancing operational capabilities and reinforcing deterrence efforts within the Indo-Pacific. The crew also had the opportunity to visit Japan for a routine port visit to Yokosuka, where they hosted Mr. Arima Yutaka, Assistant Minister (Ambassador) / Director-General of North American Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

“The true strength of our vessel lies in our Sailors, who consistently impress with their professionalism, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to enhancing the operational environment,” said Cmdr. Andrew Domina, commanding officer, USS Springfield. “Outside of normal operations, our crew had the distinct honor of hosting our foreign allies and partners, allowing them to get a firsthand look at our submarines. This was a great opportunity for bilateral engagement and allowed our partners to gain a better understanding of who we are and what we do in support of our Pacific mission.”

Springfield is the fourth ship of the United States Navy to bear the name. The boat was named in honor of both the cities of Springfield, Illinois and Springfield, Massachusetts. It was launched on Jan. 4, 1992 and commissioned on Jan. 9, 1993.

Assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam, Springfield is one of four Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines forward-deployed in the Pacific. Renowned for their unparalleled speed, endurance, stealth, and mobility, the Los Angeles-class submarines are the backbone of the Navy’s submarine force, ensuring readiness and agility in safeguarding maritime interests worldwide.

Source: United States Navy

WSP ARG recently arrived in the eastern Mediterranean Sea to ensure regional stability and deter aggression. Upon completion of their port call in Souda Bay, Crete, IKECSG joined the WSP ARG and Royal Navy ship HMS Duncan for joint operations, highlighted steaming in company.
Bilateral operations like this bolster international relationships across the region and showcase the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps team’s interoperability between our services and Allied forces.

“Carrier Strike Group 2 accomplished a lot on deployment, but we had yet to operate with our Marine brothers and sisters from an amphibious ready group,” said Rear Adm. Kavon Hakimzadeh, commander, Carrier Strike Group 2 (CSG-2), IKECSG. “The Wasp ARG is a testament to how closely our Blue/Green teams integrate, and our operations with the HMS Duncan demonstrate how effectively and expertly we are able to integrate with our partners.”

Combined, the CSG and the ARG are a battle force of nearly 10,000 Sailors and Marines who offer the fleet commander a multitude of shore and littoral capabilities to protect maritime security and stability anywhere across the globe.

“The opportunity for the WSP ARG-24 MEU (SOC) to integrate with the IKECSG and the HMS Duncan gives us the chance to showcase our interoperability with a CSG and our Allies as we take station in the Mediterranean.” said Capt. Nakia Cooper, Commodore of Amphibious Squadron 4, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).

While the ships conducted joint operations, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) hosted a family reunion in the onboard Morale, Welfare and Recreation center. Sailors from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) were transported via MH-60 Seahawk helicopter to IKE, and were afforded the opportunity to spend time with their families before returning to Wasp for the deployment ahead. IKE Sailors were given a chance to catch up with their families before returning home after a nine-month deployment.

IKECSG units are returning to their homeports or Norfolk, Virginia and Mayport, Florida after a nine-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations. They participated in Operations Yukon Lightning and Prosperity Guardian to support maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

The IKECSG is comprised of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile destroyer USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 and its nine squadrons, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Gravely (DDG 107), and the Information Warfare Commander.

The Wasp Amphibious Ready Group is comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51).

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

For more news from CSG 2, visit: https://dvidshub.net/unit/csg2 or https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/csg2/
For more news and information from the WSP ARG, visit: https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/lhd1/ or https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/wasparg24thmeu
For more information about 24th MEU, visit: https://www.24thmeu.marines.mil/
For more news from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/USSDDE-CVN69

Source: United States Navy

The camp, which began on June 23 and spanned seven intensive days, provided 47 selected students from across the country with a unique and rigorous experience designed to ignite their interest in science, technology, engineering and math careers.

Brian Files, a seasoned project manager at NAVFAC Southeast, boasts a rich history of coordinating STEM activities with the command and SAME since 2015. Additionally, Files has served as an officer or director in the SAME Jacksonville Post for an impressive 25 years.

“Hosting this STEM camp underscores NAVFAC Southeast’s commitment to inspiring and developing the next generation of STEM leaders,” said Files. “By providing hands-on experiences and mentorship from professionals in the field, we aim to foster a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among these talented students, ensuring a bright future for both our Navy and our nation.”

The camp’s primary objective was to immerse students in various STEM activities, offering them a glimpse into the demands and rewards of STEM professions. Campers were divided into squads of ten, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and competition as they vied for the title of Top Squad through various challenges and activities.

During the week, participants took part in hands-on projects, including designing and constructing concrete beams, cardboard boats, and dog houses. They also competed in a challenging engineer-designed obstacle course that required rapid decision-making, cohesive teamwork, technical skills, effective communication, and composure under pressure. These projects were guided by a diverse team of military, civilian, and private sector STEM professionals, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching learning environment.

In addition to the hands-on projects, the students toured local operational units and construction projects and attended lectures by esteemed guest speakers, including senior military leaders from NAVFAC.

“I’ve definitely learned valuable skills at this camp, particularly those that will be useful in my future career,” said Lauren Wilhelm, one of the students that attended the camp.

The camp concluded with a celebratory graduation beach party at Naval Station Mayport, marking the end of an unforgettable week filled with learning, teamwork, and personal growth.

Though this was the inaugural camp held at NAS Jacksonville, SAME has a long-standing tradition of hosting STEM camps, boasting over 20 years of success in developing future engineers and STEM professionals. This summer, four additional camps will take place across the country, including another Navy-hosted camp at Naval Base Ventura County, California.

SAME National President Sharon Krock, F.SAME, has dedicated several years to mentoring at the SAME camps, where her experiences have underscored the profound impact these programs have on inspiring youth toward STEM careers.

“The campers’ exposure to a diverse array of unique STEM career paths in just one week is an unforgettable experience for both campers and staff,” said Krock. “Mentors play a crucial role, bridging the gap between the campers’ dreams and their future careers. The connections forged here offer campers accessible resources to guide them as they navigate their career journeys.”

This groundbreaking event was generously supported by the AnnieRuth Foundation, Girl Scouts of the USA, and several leading Architecture/Engineering/Construction firms, reflecting a community-wide commitment to nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders.

For more information on SAME’s STEM camps and their impactful programs, please visit www.same.org/camps.

About NAVFAC Southeast:

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Southeast oversees the planning, designing, and construction of facility projects, and provides essential services in contracting, leasing, environmental management, maintenance, and contingency support. These services are vital for meeting the needs of the Navy and the Department of Defense within the Southeast region. Operating from its Jacksonville office, NAVFAC Southeast manages operations across Navy installations from Charleston, South Carolina, to Corpus Christi, Texas, and extends to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. NAVFAC professionals also handle the acquisition and disposition of real estate, facility management, and maintenance on all Navy bases in the Southeast region, while overseeing public-private venture (PPV) housing for military families.

About SAME:

The Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) leads collaborative efforts to identify and resolve national security infrastructure-related challenges. SAME unites public and private sector individuals and organizations from across the architecture, engineering, construction, environmental, facility management, and acquisition disciplines.